Pomegranate seeds — or arils — have been symbols of fertility, prosperity, and eternal life for thousands of years. In ancient Persia and Greece, the pomegranate was considered a sacred fruit connected to goddesses like Persephone and Aphrodite. Today, it’s still a sign of good luck and renewal in many cultures — and nutrition-wise, it’s packed with antioxidants that support heart health and glowing skin.

Ingredients:

• salt	to taste
• ground black pepper	to taste
• olive oil	1 tablespoon
• honey	1 teaspoon
• fresh baby spinach leaves	2 cups
• tangerines	2
• pomegranate seeds	1/3 cup
• crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)	1/4 cup
• toasted sliced almonds	1/4 cup
• red onion (optional)	2 tablespoons
• Dijon mustard (optional)	1 teaspoon
• apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar	1 tablespoon

1. Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), mustard (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth. Thinly slice red onion (if using).

2. Wash and dry spinach leaves. Peel and separate tangerines into segments (remove seeds and white pith).

3. Combine spinach, tangerine segments, and pomegranate seeds in a large bowl.

4. Sprinkle with crumbled cheese (if using), toasted almonds, and onion slices (if using).

5. Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.

Spinach Salad with Tangerines and Pomegranate Seeds